Derek McInnes to Sunderland: New manager could be confirmed in next 48 hours, £1m fee

Derek McInnes: Sunderland are set to name the Aberdeen manager as David Moyes' successor

The Black Cats have made a formal approach to Aberdeen and compensation talks are currently underway between the two clubs.

Sunderland are confident a £1m payout will secure the services of McInnes, who took the Dons to two Cup finals and a runners-up spot in the Scottish Premiership last season behind all-conquering Celtic in all three competitions.

McInnes’ only previous experience in English football was an unhappy spell at Bristol City but he has since enhanced his reputation north of the border, establishing the Dons as Scotland’s second-best club.

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Sunday league side Dawdon Welfare Park play in new Sunderland kit

“Sunderland are set to appoint Derek McInnes as their manager”

David Moyes left Sunderland almost three weeks ago and chief executive Martin Bain has taken his time over appointing a successor.

Names that have been discussed in the boardroom include Black Cats’ legend Kevin Phillips, Nigel Pearson, Nigel Clough and Preston boss Simon Grayson.

But Bain has turned to his compatriot having received glowing references from former Rangers’ bosses Walter Smith and Graeme Souness.

McInnes has been abroad since Aberdeen lost the Scottish Cup final to Celtic but has been in regular touch with Bain and his own representatives.

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Derek McInnes: Sunderland's next boss had a poor spell at Bristol City

He’s keen to test himself in England again and despite Sunderland’s current circumstances – they were relegated last season and are heavily in debt – he is excited by the potential of the Wearside club, who averaged over 40,000 at the Stadium of Light last term despite disastrous results.

It’s understood McInnes has sought assurances about his transfer kitty, which has today been boosted by Jordan Pickford’s £30m move to Everton.

Sunderland expect to rake in another £10m plus with Lamine Kone and Fabio Borini likely to follow Pickford through the exit door.

And Bain has told his new manager around £20m of the money made from player sales will be handed over.